By Huldah Shado
The Minister of Works, David Umahi, has ordered the withdrawal of the Abuja-bound carriageway of the ongoing Mararaba–Keffi road reconstruction project from China Harbour Engineering Company Limited.
Umahi, who gave the directive during an inspection visit on Saturday, expressed dissatisfaction with the company’s performance, citing poor quality work and disregard for ministry directives.
He announced that the 43.65-kilometre dual carriageway will now be handled by local contractors to ensure speedy and quality delivery.
“I am disappointed with the Abuja-bound carriageway. The project was not taken away from China Harbour initially, but the company’s uncooperative attitude has made it inevitable,” the minister said.
He criticised contractors who, according to him, prioritize profit over public interest and ignore basic road construction standards.
Umahi stated that no contractor should lay binder or pavement without completing the shoulders and wearing course, noting that violation of such directives often leads to road failure.
“This is unacceptable. China Harbour must not force me to declare them enemies of the Ministry of Works,” he warned.
The minister thanked President Bola Tinubu for supporting the ministry’s reform efforts, emphasizing that firm action would continue against non-performing contractors.
“From tomorrow, local contractors will be mobilised to handle the inner and outer shoulders using concrete,” Umahi said, adding that ministry officials who fail to report project lapses within 24 hours would face sanctions.
He reaffirmed that public welfare and road user safety remain the top priorities of the Tinubu administration.
